Origin and meaning of the name Behram

Learn more about the origin of the name Behram

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Behram

Behram is a Persian name that originates from the Middle Persian language, specifically from the Avestan language of ancient Iran. The name is derived from Ahura Mazda, the chief deity in Zoroastrianism, one of the world's oldest monotheistic religions originating in Iran. Behram is a hypocoristic or diminutive form of the name Ahura, which means "lord" or "spirit." In Zoroastrian tradition, Ahura Mazda is considered the wise lord and supreme being who created the world and upholds righteousness. As a given name, Behram signifies reverence for this important deity in Iranian mythology. Today, the name is popular not only among Zoroastrians but also in other communities with Iranian cultural ties.

Character traits associated with the name Behram

Behram is often associated with qualities such as wisdom, leadership, and intelligence. The name Behram, of Persian origin, is believed to mean "creator" or "generator." Individuals named Behram are thought to possess strong creative abilities and a natural inclination towards problem-solving. They are often seen as confident and assertive leaders, capable of making sound decisions and guiding others effectively. Additionally, Behrams are known for their depth of understanding and intelligence, which allows them to grasp complex concepts with ease. They may also possess a deep sense of empathy and compassion, making them well-liked and respected by those around them. Overall, Behram is a name that signifies power, wisdom, and leadership.

Popularity of the name Behram

Behram is a Persian male given name, derived from the Old Iranian Ahura- Mazda, the supreme deity in Zoroastrianism. In modern times, its usage and popularity vary greatly depending on geographical location and cultural context. In Iran, it remains a common name due to its historical significance and religious connotations. However, outside of Iran, it is less frequently used. In the United States, for instance, Behram was given to 5 boys in 2019, according to data from the Social Security Administration, making it an uncommon choice among American parents. In contrast, within the Zoroastrian community globally, Behram continues to be a popular name, reflecting the ongoing relevance and influence of ancient Persian culture and religion.

Famous people with the name Behram

Behram is a Persian name, primarily associated with individuals of Iranian descent. Some notable figures bearing this name include:

1. Behram Khan (1832-1868), also known as Mirza Behram Ali Beg or the "Lion of Khorasan", was an Iranian military commander and poet during the Qajar dynasty. He is best remembered for leading a rebellion against Nasir al-Din Shah Qajar, which ultimately led to his execution.
2. Behram Bereliani (born 1976), an Iranian-Armenian football player who played as a striker. Known for his impressive goalscoring abilities, he represented the Armenia national team at international competitions.
3. Behram Bektash (died 1271), a legendary figure in Turkish and Islamic folklore, often considered the founder of the Bektashi order, one of the Sufi branches within Islam. He is revered for his spiritual teachings, which emphasize love, tolerance, and unity among all people.

Variations of the name Behram

Behram is a Persian given name with several variations, primarily due to transliteration and regional dialects. Some common variants include:

1. Behrooz (Persian: بهروز): This is one of the most popular versions of Behram, which means "bringer of light" or "the sun shines." It's used in both Iran and India.

2. Bahram (Persian: بهرام): The original form of Behram, it translates to "having the nature of the sun" or "son of the sun." This variant is also common in Persian-speaking regions.

3. Varaha (Sanskrit: वारह) and Baram (Bengali: বরাম): These are Indian variations derived from Behram, which means "boar" in Sanskrit. They are commonly used among the Zoroastrian Parsi community in India.

4. Bahram Ghobad (Persian: بهرام قباد): This combination is a common surname in Iran and means "king Behram." It originates from the Sassanid dynasty's King Bahram V.

5. Vahram (Armenian: Վահրամ): In Armenia, Behram is often spelled as Vahram. The name means "having the nature of the sun" or "son of the sun," similar to its Persian counterpart.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the first name "behram"
• Global distribution of the first name on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 24 July 2025